In case you didn’t know, TUS is the airport code for Tucson International Airport. You can remember the TUS acronym by its inclusion in Daniel Sotelo’s website, TusRE.com (TUS- for Tucson International Airport and -RE for Real Estate). All told, TUSRE.COM is your one-stop shop for all your real estate needs in Tucson.
As for the airport — TUS is considered one of the best in Arizona, primarily for its range of destinations and airlines. If and when you relocate to Tucson, the airport yields convenient access to the city and its surrounding neighborhoods. If you’re looking into Tucson as your next place to call home, you’re choosing a city with incredible history, a thriving culinary scene, and a bustling, urban feel.
A foodie paradise, Tucson is one of only 36 UNESCO designated cities of gastronomy. In addition to mouthwatering restaurants, you can find respite in the Sabino Canyon or luxury homes in neighborhoods like the Catalina Foothills and Starr Pass. Whether you’re investing in a primary residence or a vacation home, it’s always a great time to visit Tucson and take part in its unique slate of community events. You’ll want to make sure you can get around easily from one destination to another, and one of the best resources for doing so is Tucson International Airport.
Why choose TUS?
Tucson is near a number of regional airports, but Tucson International offers residents the chance to travel around the globe. It’s only 20 minutes from downtown Tucson, too, making it a convenient option for many anyone investing in Central Tucson real estate. Aside from TUS, the closest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor, which is over an hour and a half from town.
Which airlines operate from TUS?
If you’re browsing homes for sale in Central Tucson and want to make sure you’re still able to travel to see family during the holidays, know that Tucson International Airport hosts seven airlines, including major names like American, Delta, and Southwest. Each airline offers nonstop flights to particular destinations. Alaska Airlines provides nonstop connections to Portland and Seattle, while Flair Airlines provides direct trips to cities in BC, Alberta, and Ontario, among others. Travelers looking to fly into or out of the Tucson International Airport should check ahead of time to see whether their preferred airline offers nonstop flights.
Where can you go?
Frequent travelers looking to invest in Central Tucson real estate will want to know the best way to get to all their favorite destinations. Thankfully, Tucson International has flights traveling to hundreds of cities across the globe. Nonstop flights travel out of TUS every day, taking passengers to more than 20 destinations in the United States and Canada. Whether you’re flying across the country to Chicago or Atlanta or north to Prince George, Tucson International can take you there in one stop. For bigger trips, TUS connects guests to over 320 international locations.
Terminals, features, and parking
Tucson International has two main terminals, A and B, with additional flights through Allegiant operating out of terminal C. The A gates serve Frontier, Southwest, Sun Country, and United, while the B gates serve Alaska, American, and Delta. Those flying out of TUS should be sure to double-check which airline they’re lying on and go through the TSA checkpoint for the correct terminal. Beyond the security checkpoints, there’s no way to travel to the other concourse. Active duty and retired military personnel can enjoy the TUS Military Lounge, located near baggage claim carousel four on the bottom level of the main terminal. TUS also has a lost and found office for any items that may have been accidentally left behind and a series of rotating art exhibits that are part of the TUS Arts and Culture Program.
TUS offers over 7,500 parking spaces for guests and residents, nearly 2,000 of which are within walking distance. The Tucson Airport Authority provides shuttles to and from major parking zones that run throughout the day. Hourly, daily, garage, and economy options allow guests to pay only for what they use or leave their car at the airport while they travel. Seven car rental companies are available onsite at TU, including Alamo, National, and Enterprise. Or, those arriving in Tucson can access taxis, limos, and public transit.
Average wait times
One of the best things about Tucson International Airport is the low wait times. On average, those flying out of TUS can expect to wait between 15-25 minutes. Even still, for flights overseas, passengers are encouraged to arrive at TUS two hours before their scheduled boarding time. Domestic travelers should allow themselves 90 minutes. This provides plenty of time for checking in, dropping off checked baggage, maneuvering through security, and arriving at the right gate ahead of your designated boarding time. TSA PreCheck is also available for travelers who want to skip the lines and get to their gates even faster.
Travel guidelines
Travelers should note that, as of April 2022, face masks are optional at Tucson International. International passengers are also no longer required to take a COVID-19 test before traveling. Other guidelines can vary from airline to airline, from how many bags can be checked and carry-on luggage size requirements to curbside bag check services. American Airlines, for instance, is the only airline at TUS that offers travelers curbside bag checks, while Sun Country and Flair Airlines only offer check-in services at the counter.
Visiting Tucson
Those traveling through Tucson will love its southwestern charm and incredible sights. Home to museums like the Tucson Museum of Art and the Pima Air and Space Museum, the city welcomes all those who enjoy engaging with local culture and history. Tucson is surrounded by stunning mountains and desert landscapes ready for outdoor enthusiasts to explore, including Saguaro National Park. Meanwhile, those who enjoy a night of fine dining will love Tucson’s rich culinary options, from Japanese options at Kukai to New American classics at the Grill at Hacienda Del Sol.
Exploring homes for sale in Central Tucson
Getting to know a new city takes time, but if you’re interested in learning more about Tucson, it’s well worth it. As you explore what the city has to offer, make sure you connect with a local real estate agent. Daniel Sotelo is a top professional serving clients in and around Tucson. Bringing an aptitude for details and a keen insight into the local market, Daniel helps clients find the perfect property to call home, whether they’re first-time buyers or regulars within the real estate scene. So when you’re ready to step into the Tucson market and find out more about what’s available, reach out to Daniel Sotelo (520) 727-9000.
